Policy and Research Officer LE4 – DFAT

Job Title: Policy and Research Officer – LE4 – DFAT – Brussels

Location: Brussels

Salary: Gross monthly salary of 4776.87 EUR gross monthly plus thirteenth month and holiday pay

Contract Type: Permanent, ongoing

Hours: Fulltime, 37.5 hours per week

Additional benefits: 20 days of recreational leave and up to 14 public holiday days

Closing Date: 25 April 2024

Job Summary

The successful applicant will be engaged as a locally engaged staff member by the Australian Embassy, Brussels. 

Please be advised that the Australian Embassy, Brussels, does not provide relocation assistance and any costs associated with taking up the position would be the responsibility of the successful candidate.

This recruitment process will be used to engage an LE4 Policy and Research Officer, and it will also establish a merit pool for potential future LE4 Policy and Research Officer vacancies at the Australian Embassy, Brussels over the next 18 months.

About the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

The role of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is to advance the interests of Australia and Australians internationally. This involves strengthening Australia’s security, enhancing Australia’s prosperity, delivering an effective and high-quality overseas aid program and helping Australian travellers and Australians overseas. 

The department provides foreign, trade and development policy advice to the Australian Government. DFAT also works with other Australian government agencies to drive coordination of Australia’s pursuit of global, regional and bilateral interests.

About the Position

The position is based in Brussels.  The Policy and Research Officer is responsible for providing high-quality and timely research, analysis, policy advice and reporting relevant to Australia’s interests in the European Union.  The position also supports the Embassy’s delivery of substantial and productive programs for visiting officials and ministers. 

The key responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

• Monitoring and reporting on EU policy and legislative developments of interest to Australia, including foreign policy, climate, energy and environmental issues. 
• Undertaking research and analysis to provide prompt, well-researched and accurate policy advice, insights and briefings on key trends and drivers, and emerging themes related to government policy, business, and non-government stakeholders. 
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with key contacts in EU institutions, member states and third country missions, think tanks and private sector organisations to inform research objectives and reporting on stakeholder views and trends.
• Preparing written reports, including diplomatic cables and background notes
• Representing the Embassy at meetings, seminars and workshops, and reporting on issues and outcomes, as required.
• Assisting with the preparation for Ministerial and other official visits, including logistical arrangements as required. 
•  Supporting the Embassy’s public diplomacy agenda.

Qualifications/Experience

• Tertiary qualifications in a relevant field or equivalent work experience.
• Excellent written/spoken English.
• A strong understanding of the European Union’s institutions, processes and priorities.
• High-level research and analytical skills, and an ability to produce high-quality written work in English.
• Strong interpersonal, representational, and networking skills.
• An ability to show initiative, prioritise, manage time effectively, meet tight deadlines, and work both independently and as part of a team.

Desirable

• High-level skills in French or other EU languages would be beneficial.
• Knowledge and understanding of international issues relevant to Australia would be an advantage.

Selection Criteria

In your written statements, you must include relevant high-level examples from your experience that support your claims against the role. The word limit is strictly 250 words per response. The panel will not assess responses which exceed the word limit.

1. Strong understanding of the European Union, including its current policy developments and priorities. 

2. A high level of written and oral proficiency in English, with a proven ability to present information in a logical, succinct and persuasive manner.

3. Ability to independently conduct high-quality, thorough and accurate research, and to analyse and present findings to stakeholders.

4. Ability to liaise effectively with internal and external stakeholders, building relationships and maintaining useful networks.

5. Well-developed planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in order to achieve required outcomes and meet deadlines.

The Human Resources Section based in the Australian High Commission, London is responsible for managing all recruitment processes across the European region.  To apply, please use the ‘Apply’ button on our recruitment website. Please direct any other queries to [email protected].

We are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are valued. We appreciate the experiences, skills and perspectives of all individuals. We actively encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds who share our values.